Pharmacopoeia Commission Enhances Ayush Drug Quality Through Training

The Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy has successfully completed a five-day Capacity-Building Training Programme aimed at enhancing the regulation and quality of Ayush drugs. Held from September 8 to 12, 2023, in Ghaziabad, this initiative, as reported by the Ministry of Ayush, focused on strengthening the regulatory framework and quality assurance processes for drugs in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homoeopathy.

The training programme brought together 27 participants from various sectors, including regulatory bodies, research councils, pharmaceutical industries, and academic institutions. This diverse group included Drug Enforcement Officers, Quality Control Personnel, and drug manufacturers, all of whom were provided with advanced knowledge and practical experience in pharmacopoeial standards and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Comprehensive Training Modules

Sessions during the training were meticulously designed to cover a range of essential topics. Participants engaged in technical discussions on pharmacognostic identification, phytochemical analysis, and GMP compliance. Hands-on training was conducted in the pharmacognosy and chemistry laboratories, providing practical insights into the standards necessary for quality assurance.

Lectures by industry experts focused on critical areas such as shelf-life studies and regulatory frameworks. This was complemented by site visits to Dr. Willmar Schwabe India in Noida and Hamdard Laboratories in Ghaziabad, which offered participants valuable real-world exposure to the pharmaceutical industry.

The programme also included microbiological and pharmacological evaluations, as well as the standardisation of metal and mineral drugs. Discussions on NABL accreditation and the standardisation of Siddha drugs further enriched the curriculum, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Impact and Future Commitment

Feedback from participants indicated a strong appreciation for the programme’s unique combination of expert-led lectures, practical laboratory sessions, and field visits. Many noted that the training significantly enhanced their understanding of pharmacopoeial standards, GMP, and regulatory compliance.

This initiative underscores a national commitment to ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of ASU&H (Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homoeopathy) drugs. By equipping professionals with essential skills and knowledge, the Pharmacopoeia Commission aims to bolster the regulatory landscape of Ayush drugs in India, ultimately benefiting the health sector and consumers alike.